AP Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu Demands Strict Action in Hostel Food Poisoning Case
In a serious health incident that has raised alarm across Andhra Pradesh, Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has issued strict directives to officials to take immediate and decisive action against those responsible for a food poisoning outbreak at the Devarapalli Ashram boys' hostel. The incident, which occurred in Rampachodavaram of Polavaram district, left 92 students severely ill after consuming breakfast on Saturday morning.
Immediate Medical Response and Investigation Launched
The chief minister conducted an urgent review meeting with officials from the Chief Minister's Office and senior administrative officers, who provided a detailed briefing on the sequence of events. According to officials, the affected students began exhibiting distressing symptoms including vomiting, severe stomach pain, fever, and diarrhoea shortly after their morning meal.
Medical teams acted swiftly, transporting all symptomatic students to nearby hospitals in Maredumilli and Rampachodavaram. Health authorities have confirmed that the students' conditions are currently stable and under close medical supervision. Officials visited the hostel premises immediately following the incident to conduct a thorough inspection of the facilities and assess overall conditions.
Comprehensive Health Measures Implemented
In response to the crisis, authorities implemented several critical measures:
- Medical examinations were conducted for all remaining students at the hostel
- Treatment was provided to those showing any symptoms of gastrointestinal distress
- A special medical camp was established on-site to monitor student health
- Samples of food items and drinking water were collected for laboratory analysis
Officials informed Chief Minister Naidu that a joint inspection committee has been constituted to conduct a detailed inquiry into the incident. This committee will identify any lapses in food preparation, storage, or serving procedures that may have contributed to the outbreak.
Chief Minister's Directives and Government Stance
During the review meeting, CM Naidu issued several specific instructions to ensure accountability and prevent future occurrences:
- Continuous monitoring of the health condition of all affected students undergoing treatment
- Regular updates to be provided directly to the chief minister's office
- The district collector must submit a comprehensive report on the incident by Monday
- Departmental action against any officials found responsible for negligence
- Criminal cases to be filed if warranted by the inquiry findings
The chief minister emphasized that student safety and health represent the government's highest priority, and any negligence in this regard will face zero tolerance. He stressed that hostel facilities, particularly those serving vulnerable populations, must maintain the highest standards of hygiene and food safety.
This incident has highlighted critical concerns about food safety protocols in institutional settings across Andhra Pradesh. The government's rapid response and the chief minister's personal involvement demonstrate the administration's commitment to protecting student welfare and ensuring accountability when standards are compromised.
